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Though many associate fatigue and restlessness with sleep apnea, this common condition impacts more parts of the body than most realize. For instance, since those of us with sleep apnea tend to breathe through our mouths instead of our noses, it affects oral health. Here is a brief guide to understanding how this happens and how dentists can help. 

How Does Sleep Apnea Impact Teeth? 

Sleep apnea is a disorder that causes the airway to partially collapse as people sleep. In addition to snoring, those with the condition also experience dry mouth since oral tissue can lose moisture overnight. Unfortunately, since our teeth and gums rely on saliva to rinse away food grime and neutralize bacterial acids, dry mouths lead to oral decay. 

Bruxism, or nighttime teeth grinding, is another common oral condition tied to sleep apnea. Patients can wear down the edges of their teeth and cause severe dental fractures, paving the way for painful eating and dental infections. The disorder has also been tied to periodontal disease, as it inflames gum tissue and causes oral decay. 

What Can Dentists Do to Help? 

dentistFortunately, many dentists offer solutions to help those with sleep apnea. For instance, protective mouth guards prevent dental damage. These professionals can also work in tandem with your sleep doctor or family practitioner to adjust treatments as needed. If you have mild to moderate sleep apnea, a dentist may prescribe a night guard to prevent grinding, and a family doctor might check in with you about the symptoms. 

 

Since both sleep apnea and dental damage can be detrimental to your health, speak with our team at Valley Family Dentistry PLLC in Mayfield, New York. We’ll help you spot problems early and address them proactively. Servicing Fulton County, Hamilton County, Montgomery County, and Saratoga County with comprehensive general and family dentistry, including tooth fillings, dental cleanings, tooth restorations, and crowns, our dentists have the experience to help you improve your health and appearance. To learn more about how we can assist, visit us online or call (518) 661-6405 to schedule an appointment.

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